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It is becoming increasingly clear that Apple’s iPhone 12 range will not please everyone. But now we know what will get everyone talking.
Apple iPhone 12 Pro camera may no longer include LiDAR sensor, rendering concept shown
The mysterious (but always trustworthy) Apple leaker, Mr White, has revealed a pair of iPhone 12 Pro cases that drop a giant key in the works. One shows a triple camera setup from the iPhone 12 Pro and highlights the position of Apple’s exciting new LiDAR sensor, the other shows the same cameras but with the LiDAR sensor removed. And this could have costly consequences for updaters.
For several weeks now, reports have been growing that Apple can only install the LiDAR sensor in the larger (and more expensive) iPhone 12 Pro Max. A move that harks back to Apple’s earlier (disgusting) strategy of reserving the best features (at the time, dual cameras) for the larger, more expensive iPhone Plus models. Apple seemed to rule this out with the iPhone XS and iPhone 11 ranges, but has the company reversed its direction again?
Apple iPhone 12 Pro Cases Show LiDAR Camera May Be Missing From Model
Is there another explanation? Yes, but you might not like it more, and that is, like its ProMotion 120Hz displays, the inclusion of LiDAR is at stake, and Apple is shipping both designs so that case makers can be prepared. This is an all or nothing scenario.
My personal feeling is that LiDAR is essential if Apple wants the Pro models to have significant sales traction. With the new smaller iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Plus jumping to dual cameras, slimmer bezels, and OLED displays, LiDAR offers perhaps the most compelling reason to remain Pro. That said, it is understood that Apple is significantly reducing orders for models of models. iPhone 12 Pro by almost 50%, which doesn’t look good.
With Apple also set to remove the charger (upgraded from 20W) and EarPods from the box, reduce battery capacity, and increase sales prices, the industry talk of a new ‘super cycle’ of iPhone sales seems premature in today’s climate. That said, the new designs in the iPhone 12 range look great, they’re packed with energy, and in an era of 5G-driven price hikes, they’ll still be more affordable than their key rivals.
Apple is betting, but it could be enough.
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